Device and Method for UBM/RDL Routing

ABSTRACT

An under bump metallurgy (UBM) and redistribution layer (RDL) routing structure includes an RDL formed over a die. The RDL comprises a first conductive portion and a second conductive portion. The first conductive portion and the second conductive portion are at a same level in the RDL. The first conductive portion of the RDL is separated from the second conductive portion of the RDL by insulating material of the RDL. A UBM layer is formed over the RDL. The UBM layer includes a conductive UBM trace and a conductive UBM pad. The UBM trace electrically couples the first conductive portion of the RDL to the second conductive portion of the RDL. The UBM pad is electrically coupled to the second conductive portion of the RDL. A conductive connector is formed over and electrically coupled to the UBM pad.

BACKGROUND

The semiconductor industry has experienced rapid growth due to ongoingimprovements in the integration density of a variety of electroniccomponents (e.g., transistors, diodes, resistors, capacitors, etc.). Forthe most part, improvement in integration density has resulted fromiterative reduction of minimum feature size, which allows morecomponents to be integrated into a given area. As the demand forshrinking electronic devices has grown, a need for smaller and morecreative packaging techniques of semiconductor dies has emerged. Anexample of such packaging systems is Package-on-Package (PoP)technology. In a PoP device, a top semiconductor package is stacked ontop of a bottom semiconductor package to provide a high level ofintegration and component density. PoP technology generally enablesproduction of semiconductor devices with enhanced functionalities andsmall footprints on a printed circuit board (PCB).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Aspects of the present disclosure are best understood from the followingdetailed description when read with the accompanying figures. It isnoted that, in accordance with the standard practice in the industry,various features are not drawn to scale. In fact, the dimensions of thevarious features may be arbitrarily increased or reduced for clarity ofdiscussion.

FIGS. 1 through 15 illustrate cross-sectional views of intermediatesteps during a process to form a first package structure, in accordancewith some embodiments.

FIGS. 16 a, 16 b, and 16 c illustrate cross-sectional views of variousunder bump metallurgy (UBM) and redistribution layer (RDL) routingfeatures of a first package structure, in accordance with someembodiments.

FIG. 17 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a Package-on-Package (PoP)structure, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIGS. 18a and 18b are flowcharts illustrating packaging and UBM/RDLfabrication methods, in accordance with some embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following disclosure provides many different embodiments, orexamples, for implementing different features of the invention. Specificexamples of components and arrangements are described below to simplifythe present disclosure. These are, of course, merely examples and arenot intended to be limiting. For example, the formation of a firstfeature over or on a second feature in the description that follows mayinclude embodiments in which the first and second features are formed indirect contact, and may also include embodiments in which additionalfeatures may be formed between the first and second features, such thatthe first and second features may not be in direct contact. In addition,the present disclosure may repeat reference numerals and/or letters inthe various examples. This repetition is for the purpose of simplicityand clarity and does not in itself dictate a relationship between thevarious embodiments and/or configurations discussed.

Further, spatially relative terms, such as “beneath,” “below,” “lower,”“above,” “upper” and the like, may be used herein for ease ofdescription to describe one element or feature's relationship to one ormore other elements or features as illustrated in the figures. Thespatially relative terms are intended to encompass differentorientations of the device in use or operation in addition to theorientation depicted in the figures. The apparatus may be otherwiseoriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatiallyrelative descriptors used herein may likewise be interpretedaccordingly.

Embodiments described herein may be discussed in a specific context,namely electrical routing for under bump metallurgy (UBM) andredistribution layer (RDL) structures in a packaged device.Representative implementations of package structures may include, e.g.,a fan-out package. Representatively disclosed embodiments herein areapplicable to any package structure, including one or more integratedcircuit dies. Other embodiments contemplate other applications, such asdifferent package types and/or different configurations that would bereadily apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art upon readingthis disclosure. It should be noted that embodiments discussed hereinmay not necessarily illustrate every component or feature that may bepresent in a particular structure. For example, various components maybe omitted from a figure, such as when discussion of one or more othercomponents may be sufficient to describe a particular embodiment.

UBM/RDL routing designs of representative embodiments improvereliability considerations relating to, e.g., electromigration,susceptibility to drop damage, and thermal cycling integrity.Accordingly, an improved UBM/RDL routing structure is desirable toprovide robust and reliable device package structures.

FIGS. 1 through 15 illustrate cross-sectional views of intermediatesteps during a process to form a first package structure in accordancewith representative embodiments. FIG. 1 illustrates a carrier substrate100 and a release layer 110 formed on the carrier substrate 100. A firstpackage region 800 a and a second package region 800 b, for theformation of a first package and a second package, respectively, areillustrated.

Carrier substrate 100 may be a glass carrier substrate, a ceramiccarrier substrate, or the like. Carrier substrate 100 may be a wafer;such that multiple packages can be formed on carrier substrate 100substantially simultaneously. Release layer 110 may be formed of apolymer-based material, which may be removed along with carriersubstrate 100 from overlying structures formed in subsequent steps. Insome embodiments, release layer 110 may comprise an epoxy-based,thermal-release material, which loses adhesion when heated, such as aLight-to-Heat-Conversion (LTHC) release coating. In other embodiments,release layer 110 may comprise an ultra-violet (UV) glue, which losesadhesion when exposed to UV light. Release layer 110 may be dispensed asa liquid and cured, may be laminated as a film on carrier substrate 100,or the like. The top surface of release layer 110 may be leveled, orotherwise processed to provide acceptable planarity.

An insulating layer 120 is formed on release layer 110. The bottomsurface of insulating layer 120 may be in contact with the top surfaceof release layer 110. In some embodiments, insulating layer 120 may beformed of a polymer, such as polybenzoxazole (PBO), polyimide,benzocyclobutene (BCB), or the like. In other embodiments, insulatinglayer 120 may be formed of a dielectric, a nitride (e.g., siliconnitride), an oxide (e.g., silicon oxide), a glass (e.g., phosphosilicateglass (PSG), borosilicate glass (BSG), boron-doped phosphosilicate glass(BPSG)), or the like. Insulating layer 120 may be formed by anyacceptable deposition process, such as spin coating, chemical vapordeposition (CVD), lamination, or the like, or a combination thereof.

As representatively illustrated in FIG. 2, electrical connectors 200 a,200 a′, 200 b, 200 b′ are formed over insulating layer 120. Electricalconnectors 200 a and 200 a′ are formed in first package region 800 a.Electrical connectors 200 b and 200 b′ are formed in second packageregion 800 b. As a representative example to form electrical connectors200 a, 200 a′, 200 b, 200 b′, a seed layer (not shown) is formed oninsulating layer 120. In some embodiments, the seed layer comprises ametal layer, which may be a single layer or a composite layer having aplurality of sub-layers formed of different materials. In someembodiments, the seed layer comprises a titanium layer and a copperlayer over the titanium layer. The seed layer may be formed using, e.g.,PVD, or the like. Photoresist is formed and patterned on the seed layer.The photoresist may be formed by spin coating, or the like, and may beexposed to light for patterning. The pattern of the photoresistcorresponds to subsequently formed electrical connectors 200 a, 200 a′,200 b, 200 b′. Patterning forms openings through the photoresist toexpose the seed layer. A conductive material is formed in the openingsof the photoresist and on exposed portions of the seed layer. Theconductive material may be formed by plating, such as electroplating orelectroless plating, or the like. The conductive material may comprise ametal, e.g., copper, titanium, tungsten, aluminum, or the like. Thephotoresist and portions of the seed layer on which the conductivematerial is not formed are removed. The photoresist may be removed by anacceptable ashing or stripping process, e.g., using an oxygen plasma, orthe like. Once the photoresist is removed, exposed portions of the seedlayer are removed, such as by using an acceptable etching process, e.g.,wet or dry etching. Remaining portions of the seed layer and theconductive material form electrical connectors 200 a, 200 a′, 200 b, 200b′.

As representatively illustrated in FIG. 3, integrated circuit (IC) dies300 a, 300 b are adhered to insulating layer 120 by an adhesive 310 a,310 b, respectively. IC dies 300 a, 300 b are adhered in respectivefirst package region 800 a and second package region 800 b. In otherembodiments, more or fewer IC dies may be adhered in each region. ICdies 300 a, 300 b may comprise logic dies (e.g., central processingunit, microcontrollers, etc.), memory dies (e.g., dynamic random accessmemories (DRAM), static random access memories (SRAM), etc.), powermanagement dies (e.g., power management integrated circuits (PMIC)),radio frequency (RF) dies, sensor dies, micro-electro-mechanical-system(MEMS) dies, signal processing dies (e.g., digital signal processors(DSP)), front-end dies (e.g., analog front-end (AFE) dies), or the like,or a combination thereof. In representative embodiments, IC dies 300 a,300 b may be different sizes. In other embodiments, IC dies 300 a, 300 bmay be substantially the same size.

As provided, IC die 300 a may comprise overlying electrical contactfeatures 320 a, 320 a′ (e.g., one or more contact pads), metallizationfeatures 330 a, 330 a′ (e.g., one or more metallization layers),passivation features 340 a (e.g., one or more passivation layers),insulating features 350 a (e.g., one or more dielectric layers), or thelike, or combinations thereof. As provided, IC die 300 b may compriseoverlying electrical contact features 320 b, 320 b′, metallizationfeatures 330 b, 330 b′, passivation features 340 b, insulating features350 b, or the like, or combinations thereof. In representativeembodiments, a plurality of metallization features and insulatingfeatures of IC dies 300 a, 300 b may comprise one or more RDLs.

Electrical contact features 320 a, 320 a′, 320 b, 320 b′ may comprisepads, such as aluminum pads, to which external connections may be made.The pads may be disposed on what may be referred to as respective activesides of IC dies 300 a, 300 b. Passivation features 340 a, 340 b maycomprise passivation films on IC dies 300 a, 300 b and on portions ofthe pads. Openings may be formed through the passivation films to thepads. Metallization features 330 a, 330 a′, 330 b, 330 b′ may comprisedie connectors, such as conductive pillars (e.g., comprising a metalsuch as copper), in the openings through the passivation films, and maybe mechanically and electrically coupled to respective pads. The dieconnectors may be formed by, for example, plating, or the like. The dieconnectors provide an electrical connection to respective integratedcircuits of IC dies 300 a, 300 b.

Insulating features 350 a, 350 b may comprise insulating materialdisposed on active sides of IC dies 300 a, 300 b, such as on thepassivation films and the die connectors. The insulating material maylaterally encapsulate the die connectors and may be substantiallylaterally co-terminus with lateral extents of respective IC dies 300 a,300 b. The insulating material may be a polymer (e.g., PBO, polyimide,BCB), a nitride (e.g., silicon nitride), an oxide (e.g., silicon oxide),a glass (e.g., PSG, BSG, BPSG), a dielectric material, and/or the like,or a combination thereof, and may be formed, for example, by spincoating, lamination, CVD, or the like.

Before being adhered to insulating layer 120, IC dies 300 a, 300 b maybe processed according to applicable manufacturing processes to formintegrated circuits in IC dies 300 a, 300 b. For example, IC dies 300 a,300 b may each comprise a semiconductor substrate, such as silicon(doped or undoped) or an active layer of a semiconductor-on-insulator(SOI) substrate. A semiconductor substrate may include othersemiconductor material, e.g., germanium, a compound semiconductor (e.g.,silicon carbide, gallium arsenic, gallium phosphide, indium phosphide,indium arsenide, indium antimonide), an alloy semiconductor (e.g., SiGe,GaAsP, AlInAs, AlGaAs, GaInAs, GaInP, GaInAsP), and/or the like. Othersubstrates, such as multi-layered or gradient substrates, may also beused. Devices, such as transistors, diodes, capacitors, resistors,inductors, etc., may be formed in and/or on the semiconductor substrate,and may be interconnected by interconnect structures formed by, e.g.,metallization patterns in one or more insulating layers on thesemiconductor substrate to form an integrated circuit.

Adhesive 310 a, 310 b is disposed on back-side surfaces of IC dies 300a, 300 b, respectively, and adheres IC dies 300 a, 300 b to insulatinglayer 120 (or, in alternative embodiments later described herein,respective back-side redistribution structures). Adhesive 310 a, 310 bmay be any suitable adhesive, epoxy, die attach film (DAF), or the like.Adhesive 310 a, 310 b may be applied to a back-side of IC dies 300 a,300 b prior to die placement, such as to a back-side of a respectivesemiconductor wafer. IC dies 300 a, 300 b may be subsequently singulated(e.g., such as by sawing or dicing) while adhered to insulating layer120 by adhesive 310 a, 310 b using, e.g., a pick-and-place tool.

As representatively illustrated in FIG. 4, an encapsulant 400 is formedon and between various components. Encapsulant 400 may at leastlaterally encapsulate IC dies 300 a, 300 b and electrical connectors 200a, 200 a′, 200 b, 200 b′. Encapsulant 400 may be a molding compound,epoxy, or the like, and may be applied by compression molding, transfermolding, or the like. After curing, encapsulant 400 may undergo agrinding or other planarization process to expose electrical connectors200 a, 200 a′, 200 b, 200 b′ and die connectors 330 a, 330 a′, 330 b,330 b′. Top surfaces of electrical connectors 200 a, 200 a′, 200 b, 200b′, die connectors 330 a, 330 a′, 330 b, 330 b′, and encapsulant 400 maybe substantially co-planar (or otherwise share a substantially commontopography) after planarization. In some embodiments, grinding orplanarization may be omitted; for example, if electrical connectors 200a, 200 a′, 200 b, 200 b′ and die connectors 330 a, 330 a′, 330 b, 330 b′are already exposed.

FIGS. 5 through 8 representatively illustrate formation of a front-sideredistribution structure. As representatively illustrated in FIG. 8, thefront-side redistribution structure comprises insulating layers 500,600, 700, metallization patterns 510, 610, 710, and insulating layer810.

As representatively illustrated in FIG. 5, insulating layer 500 isdeposited on encapsulant 400, electrical connectors 200 a, 200 a′, 200b, 200 b′, and die connectors 330 a, 330 a′, 330 b, 330 b′. In someembodiments, insulating layer 500 is formed from and comprises apolymer, which may be a photo-sensitive material such as PBO, polyimide,BCB, or the like, that may be patterned using a lithography mask. Inother embodiments, insulating layer 500 may be formed of a nitride(e.g., silicon nitride), an oxide (e.g., silicon oxide), a glass (e.g.,PSG, BSG, BPSG), a dielectric material, and/or the like, or acombination thereof. Insulating layer 500 may be formed by spin coating,lamination, CVD, or the like, or a combination thereof.

Insulating layer 500 is patterned to form openings to expose portions ofelectrical connectors 200 a, 200 a′, 200 b, 200 b′ and die connectors330 a, 330 a′, 330 b, 330 b′. Patterning may be accomplished by anysuitable process, such as by employing lithographic exposure of aphoto-sensitive material, followed by development and etching; e.g., ananisotropic etch. If insulating layer 500 is a photo-sensitive material,insulating layer 500 can be patterned by exposing, developing, andcuring the photosensitive material in accordance with the desiredpattern.

Metallization pattern 510 with vias may be formed on insulating layer500. For example, a seed layer (not shown) may be formed over insulatinglayer 500 and in openings through insulating layer 500. In someembodiments, the seed layer may comprise a metal layer, which may be asingle layer or a composite layer having a plurality of sub-layersformed of different materials. In some embodiments, the seed layercomprises a titanium layer and a copper layer over the titanium layer.The seed layer may be formed using, for example, PVD, or the like.Photoresist may then be formed and patterned on the seed layer. Thephotoresist may be formed by spin coating, or the like, and may beexposed to light for patterning. The pattern of the photoresistcorresponds to subsequently formed metallization pattern 510. Patterningforms openings through the photoresist to expose the seed layer. Aconductive material is formed in the openings of the photoresist and onthe exposed portions of the seed layer. The conductive material may beformed by plating, such as electroplating or electroless plating, or thelike. The conductive material may comprise a metal, e.g., copper,titanium, tungsten, aluminum, or the like. Thereafter, photoresist andportions of the seed layer on which the conductive material is notformed are removed. The photoresist may be removed by an acceptableashing or stripping process, e.g., using an oxygen plasma, or the like.Once the photoresist is removed, exposed portions of the seed layer maybe removed, such as by using an acceptable etching process, e.g., wet ordry etching. Remaining portions of the seed layer and conductivematerial form the metallization pattern 510 with vias. The vias ofmetallization pattern 510 are formed in openings through the insulatinglayer 500 to electrical connectors 200 a, 200 a′, 200 b, 200 b′ and dieconnectors 330 a, 330 a′, 330 b, 330 b′. In other embodiments, themetallization pattern may be formed by depositing a conductive layer andpatterning the conductive layer.

As representatively illustrated in FIG. 6, insulating layer 600 isdeposited over and on metallization pattern 510 and insulating layer500. In some embodiments, insulating layer 600 is formed of a polymer,which may be a photo-sensitive material such as PBO, polyimide, BCB, orthe like, that may be patterned using a lithography mask. In otherembodiments, insulating layer 600 may be formed of a nitride (e.g.,silicon nitride), an oxide (e.g., silicon oxide), a glass (e.g., PSG,BSG, BPSG), a dielectric material, and/or the like, or a combinationthereof. Insulating layer 600 may be formed by spin coating, lamination,CVD, or the like, or a combination thereof.

Insulating layer 600 is patterned to form openings to expose portions ofmetallization pattern 510. Patterning may be accomplished by anysuitable process, such as by employing lithographic exposure of aphoto-sensitive material, followed by development and etching; e.g., ananisotropic etch. If insulating layer 600 is a photo-sensitive material,insulating layer 600 can be patterned by exposing, developing, andcuring the photosensitive material in accordance with the desiredpattern.

Metallization pattern 610 with vias may be formed on insulating layer600 in a substantially similar manner as discussed above with referenceto metallization pattern 510 with vias on insulating layer 500.

As representatively illustrated in FIG. 7, insulating layer 700 isdeposited over and on metallization pattern 610 and insulating layer600. In some embodiments, insulating layer 700 is formed of a polymer,which may be a photo-sensitive material such as PBO, polyimide, BCB, orthe like, that may be patterned using a lithography mask. In otherembodiments, insulating layer 700 may be formed of a nitride (e.g.,silicon nitride), an oxide (e.g., silicon oxide), a glass (e.g., PSG,BSG, BPSG), a dielectric material, and/or the like, or a combinationthereof. Insulating layer 700 may be formed by spin coating, lamination,CVD, or the like, or a combination thereof.

Insulating layer 700 is patterned to form openings to expose portions ofmetallization pattern 610. Patterning may be accomplished by anysuitable process, such as by employing lithographic exposure of aphoto-sensitive material, followed by development and etching. Ifinsulating layer 700 is a photo-sensitive material, insulating layer 700can be patterned by exposing, developing, and curing the photosensitivematerial in accordance with the desired pattern.

Metallization pattern 710 with vias may be formed on insulating layer700 in a substantially similar manner as discussed above with referenceto metallization pattern 510 with vias on insulating layer 500.

In a representative embodiment insulating layer 500 and metallizationpattern 510 comprise a first RDL, insulating layer 600 and metallizationpattern 610 comprise a second RDL, and metallization pattern 710comprises a UBM layer. Accordingly, a representative front-sideredistribution structure may comprise a first RDL (e.g., firstinsulating layer 500, first metallization pattern 510), a second RDL(e.g., second insulating layer 600, second metallization pattern 610),and a UBM layer (e.g., third insulating layer 700, third metallizationpattern 710). In various other embodiments, more or fewer insulatinglayers and metallization patterns may be formed in a front-sideredistribution structure. If fewer insulating layers and metallizationpatterns are to be formed, representative steps and processes discussedabove may be omitted. If more insulating layers and metallizationpatterns are to be formed, representative steps and processes discussedabove may be repeated. One having ordinary skill in the art will readilyunderstand which steps and processes would be omitted or repeated.

Accordingly, various representative embodiments provide a path ofelectrical routing (as later discussed with reference to FIGS. 16 a, 16b, and 16 c) from a portion of a UBM layer, down to an RDL line, up to aUBM pad of the UBM layer, then to an external interconnect electricallyconnected to the UBM pad.

As representatively illustrated in FIG. 8, insulating layer 810 isdeposited over and on metallization pattern 710 and insulating layer700. In some embodiments, insulating layer 810 may comprise a polymer,which may be a photo-sensitive material such as PBO, polyimide, BCB, orthe like, that may be patterned using a lithography mask. In otherembodiments, insulating layer 810 may be formed of a nitride (e.g.,silicon nitride), an oxide (e.g., silicon oxide), a glass (e.g., PSG,BSG, BPSG), a dielectric material, and/or the like. Insulating layer 810may be formed by spin coating, lamination, CVD, or the like, or acombination thereof.

As representatively illustrated in FIG. 9, insulating layer 810 ispatterned to form openings 900 a, 900 a′, 900 b, 900 b′ to exposeportions (e.g., UBM pad portions 910 a, 910 a′, 910 b, 910 b′) ofmetallization pattern 710. Openings 900 a, 900 a′, 900 b, 900 b′ areformed on an exterior side of the front-side redistribution structure.Patterning may be accomplished by any suitable process, such as byemploying lithographic exposure of a photo-sensitive material, followedby development and etching. Subsequent to forming openings 900 a, 900a′, 900 b, 900 b′, a trace portion (1690 as later described withreference to FIG. 16c ) of UBM metallization pattern 710 remains coveredby material of insulating layer 810.

As representatively illustrated in FIG. 10, conductive connectors 1000a, 1000 a′, 1000 b, 1000 b′ are formed on and coupled to UBM padportions 910 a, 910 a′, 910 b, 910 b′ of metallization pattern 710.Conductive connectors 1000 a, 1000 a′, 1000 b, 1000 b′ may comprise ballgrid array (BGA) connectors, solder balls, metal pillars, controlledcollapse chip connection (C4) bumps, micro bumps, electrolessnickel-electroless palladium-immersion gold technique (ENEPIG) formedbumps, or the like. Conductive connectors 1000 a, 1000 a′, 1000 b, 1000b′ may include a conductive material such as solder, copper, aluminum,gold, nickel, silver, palladium, tin, or the like, or a combinationthereof. In some embodiments, conductive connectors 1000 a, 1000 a′,1000 b, 1000 b′ may be formed by initially depositing a layer of solderwith commonly used methods, e.g., evaporation, electroplating, printing,solder transfer, ball placement, or the like. Once a layer of solder hasbeen formed on the structure, a reflow may be performed in order toshape the material into the desired bump shapes. In another embodiment,conductive connectors 1000 a, 1000 a′, 1000 b, 1000 b′ may comprisemetal pillars (e.g., a copper pillar) formed by sputtering, printing,electroplating, electroless plating, CVD, or the like. The metal pillarsmay be substantially solder-free and have substantially verticalsidewalls. In some embodiments, a metal cap layer may be formed on thetop of the metal pillar connectors. The metal cap layer may includenickel, tin, tin-lead, gold, silver, palladium, indium,nickel-palladium-gold, nickel-gold, or the like, or a combinationthereof, and may be formed by a plating process. In accordance with arepresentative embodiment, conductive connectors 1000 a, 1000 a′, 1000b, 1000 b′ may comprise solder balls having a diameter ranging from,e.g., about 150 μm to about 300 μm.

As representatively illustrated in FIG. 10 (with benefits and advantagesfurther described herein with reference to FIGS. 16 a, 16 b, and 16 c),a representative UBM/RDL structure is provided for routing UBMelectrical signals through underlying RDL portions, as compared to,e.g., direct routing through a UBM layer alone.

Testing may be performed after conductive connectors 1000 a, 1000 a′,1000 b, 1000 b′ have been formed, e.g., to identify defective packagestructures. Thereafter, as representatively illustrated in FIG. 11, acarrier substrate de-bonding procedure may be performed to detach(de-bond) carrier substrate 100 from insulating layer 120 (or inaccordance with other representative embodiments, a back-sideredistribution structure). In accordance with some embodiments,de-bonding includes projecting electromagnetic energy (e.g., laser, UV,or the like) on the release layer 110 so that the release layer 110decomposes, or otherwise detaches, to permit removal of carriersubstrate 100. The structure is then flipped over and placed on a tape1100 for further processing.

In accordance with an alternative embodiment, plural insulating layersand metallization layers may be formed over insulating layer 120 beforeformation of electrical connectors 200 a, 200 a′, 200 b, 200 b′ or aftercarrier substrate 100 removal to produce a back-side redistributionstructure that includes one or more insulating layers and one or moremetallization layers. Back-side redistribution structures so formed mayinclude any number of insulating layers, metallization patterns, andvias. For example, vias may be formed during the formation of ametallization pattern by forming a seed layer and conductive material ofthe metallization pattern in an opening of underlying insulating layers.The vias may therefore interconnect and electrically couple variousmetallization layers in a resulting back-side redistribution structure.The back-side redistribution structure may be formed in a similar manneras discussed above with reference to formation of front-side RDLs.

As representatively illustrated in FIG. 12, insulating layer 120 ispatterned to form openings 1200 b′, 1200 b, 1200 a′, 1200 a to exposeback-side portions of electrical connectors 200 b′, 200 b, 200 a′, 200a. Patterning may be accomplished by any acceptable process, such as byemploying lithographic exposure of a photo-sensitive material, followedby development and etching. If insulating layer 120 is a photo-sensitivematerial, insulating layer 120 can be developed after exposure.Alternatively, openings 1200 b′, 1200 b, 1200 a′, 1200 a may be formedby laser drilling, or the like.

As representatively illustrated in FIG. 13 and FIG. 14, packages 800 a,800 b are singulated to produce discrete packages. Singulation may beperformed by sawing along scribe line 1400, e.g., between adjacentpackage regions 800 a and 800 b. Sawing separates first package region800 a from second package region 800 b. In an embodiment, singulationproduces discrete package 800 a, as representatively illustrated in FIG.15 after removal from tape 1100. In accordance with variousrepresentative embodiments, discrete package 800 a may comprise anintegrated fan-out (InFO) package.

In accordance with an embodiment, as representatively illustrated inFIG. 16 a, discrete package 800 a may be configured to provide a firstelectrical connection 1600 to/from a UBM pad 910 a of metallizationpattern 710 (and conductive connector 1000 a coupled thereto) from/to aconductive line 1615 of underlying metallization pattern 610, a secondelectrical connection 1610 along conductive line 1615 in metallizationpattern 610, and a third electrical connection 1620 to/from conductiveline 1615 from/to a UBM layer portion 1625 of overlying metallizationpattern 710. The second electrical connection 1610 provides anelectrical connection between the first electrical connection 1600 andthe third electrical connection 1620, such that UBM layer portion 1625of metallization pattern 710 is in electrical connection (but otherwisenot in mechanical or physical contact) with UBM pad 910 a. Consequently,electrical signals can be routed through underlying redistributionlayers (for the benefit of, e.g., added protection afforded by overlyingmaterial layers) before being routed to laterally disposed portions ofoverlying UBM metallization pattern 710. Accordingly, UBM metallizationpattern 710, in addition to providing one or more points of externalconnection to/from discrete package 800 a, also provides electricalrouting within discrete package 800 a.

As representatively illustrated in FIG. 16 b, a package 800 a includesmolding compound 400 at least laterally encapsulating IC die 300 a andadjacent electrical connectors 200 a, 200 a′. Insulating layers 500,600, 700 are disposed over a top surface 1630 a of IC die 300 a, moldingcompound 400, and electrical connectors 200 a, 200 a′. Insulating layer500 and metallization layer 510 comprise a first RDL. Insulating layer600 and metallization layer 610 comprise a second RDL. Metallizationlayer 710 comprises a UBM layer. Bottom surface 1630 b of IC die 300 a(as provided for attachment to insulating layer 120) comprises anadhesive layer 310 a in contact with back-side insulating layer 120. Atleast a portion of conductive connector 1000 a is disposed over and on afirst portion 1640 of UBM pad 910 a in UBM metallization layer 710. Asecond portion 1650 of UBM metallization layer 710 is separated from thefirst portion 1640 by insulating material portion 1660 (a firstinsulating region) of insulating layer 810. A third portion 1670 of RDLmetallization layer 610 electrically couples the first portion 1640 tothe second portion 1650. First portion 1640, second portion 1650, andthird portion 1670 are electrically coupled to conductive connector 1000a. Insulating material portion 1675 (a second insulating region) ofinsulating layer 700 is disposed between and interposes the thirdportion 1670 of RDL metallization layer 610 and the insulating materialportion 1660 of insulating layer 810.

In accordance with a representative embodiment, insulating materialportion 1660 comprises a different material layer than insulatingmaterial portion 1675 of insulating layer 700. In accordance withanother representative embodiment, insulating material portion 1660comprises a different material than insulating material portion 1675 ofinsulating layer 700. In accordance with another representativeembodiment, the first portion 1640 and the second portion 1650 maycomprise a same material layer formed in a same process step. Inaccordance with a representative aspect, the first portion 1640 and thesecond portion 1650 of UBM metallization layer 710 may comprise a samematerial. In another representative embodiment, the first portion 1640and the second portion 1650 may comprise a different material than thethird portion 1670 of RDL metallization layer 610. In an embodiment,metallization layer 610 of the second RDL and metallization layer 710 ofthe UBM layer electrically connects IC die 300 a to conductive connector1000 a.

As generally illustrated in FIG. 16 c, an interconnect design inaccordance with a representative embodiment for providing a UBM/RDLrouting structure (e.g., sans die) is provided. Insulating layer 600 andmetallization layer 610 comprise an RDL. Metallization layer 710comprises a UBM layer. The UBM layer overlies the RDL. At least aportion of a first conductive connector 1000 a is disposed over and on afirst UBM pad 910 a. Conductive connector 1000 a is electrically coupledto first UBM pad 910 a. A first portion 1680 of RDL metallization layer610 is separated from a second portion 1685 of RDL metallization layer610 by insulating material 1698 of RDL insulating layer 700. A UBM trace1690 is disposed over the RDL and in the UBM metallization layer 710.The UBM trace 1690 electrically couples the first portion 1680 of theRDL to the second portion 1685 of the RDL. UBM metallization layer 710comprises the first UBM pad 910 a. Second portion 1685 of RDLmetallization layer 610 is electrically coupled to first UBM pad 910 a.Accordingly, first portion 1680 of RDL metallization layer 610 iselectrically coupled (thru UBM trace 1690 of the UBM layer, secondportion 1685 of metallization layer 610 of the RDL, and first UBM pad910 a of the UBM layer) to conductive connector 1000 a. UBM trace 1690of UBM metallization layer 710 is electrically coupled (thru secondportion 1685 of metallization layer 610 of the RDL) to first UBM pad 910a. Notwithstanding the preceding, with respect to metal features withinmetallization layer 710 of the UBM layer, UBM trace 1690 is nototherwise physically or mechanically coupled to first UBM pad 910 a.That is to say, there is no configuration or distribution of metalfeatures within the UBM layer that would physically connect UBM trace1690 to first UBM pad 910 a either directly or indirectly.

In a representative embodiment, metallization layer 710 of the UBM layercomprises a second UBM pad 910 a′. At least a portion of a secondconductive connector 1000 a′ is disposed over and on second UBM pad 910a′. Second conductive connector 1000 a′ is electrically coupled tosecond UBM pad 910 a′. In accordance with a representative embodiment,second conductive connector 1000 a′ and second UBM pad 910 a′ areelectrically isolated from first UBM pad 910 a and first conductiveconnector 1000 a. In another representative embodiment, second UBM pad910 a′ and second conductive connector 1000 a′ are electrically isolatedfrom first portion 1680 in the underlying RDL. In a furtherrepresentative embodiment, UBM trace 1690 is electrically isolated fromsecond conductive connector 1000 a′ and second UBM pad 910 a′.

In accordance with a representative embodiment, insulating material 1698of insulating layer 700 comprises a different material layer thaninsulating material of insulating layer 810. In accordance with arepresentative embodiment, insulating material 1698 of insulating layer700 comprises a different material than insulating material ofinsulating layer 810. In accordance with a representative embodiment,the first portion 1680 and the second portion 1685 of RDL metallizationlayer 610 may comprise a same material layer formed in a same processstep. In accordance with a representative aspect, the first portion 1680and the second portion 1685 of RDL metallization layer 610 may comprisea same material. In another representative embodiment, the first portion1680 and the second portion 1685 may comprise a different material thanmaterial forming UBM trace 1690.

Accordingly, various representative embodiments provide a path ofelectrical routing from a portion of a UBM layer, to an underlying RDLline, to a UBM pad of the UBM layer, then to an external interconnect.

FIG. 17 representatively illustrates a Package-on-Package (PoP)structure 1700 including package 800 (alternatively referred to as afirst package), a second package 1710, and a substrate 1770. Secondpackage 1710 includes a substrate 1720 and one or more stacked dies 1730(1730 a and 1730 b) coupled to substrate 1720. Substrate 1720 is, in oneembodiment, based on an insulating core such as a fiberglass reinforcedresin core. A representative core material comprises fiberglass resinsuch as FR4. Alternatives for the core material includebismaleimide-triazine (BT) resin, or alternatively, other printedcircuit board (PCB) materials or films. Build up films, such asAjinomoto build-up film (ABF) or other laminates, may be used forsubstrate 1720.

Substrate 1720 may include active and passive devices (not shown in FIG.17). As one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate, a variety ofdevices, such as transistors, capacitors, resistors, inductors, and/orthe like, may be used to provide structural and functional requirementsof the design for PoP structure 1700. Such devices may be formed usingany suitable methods.

Substrate 1720 may also include metallization layers (not shown) andthrough vias 1752. The metallization layers may be formed over activeand passive devices, and are designed to connect various devicecomponents to form functional circuitry. The metallization layers may beformed of alternating layers of insulating (e.g., low-k dielectric) andconductive material (e.g., copper), with vias interconnecting the layersof conductive material, and may be formed using any suitable process(e.g., deposition, damascene, dual damascene, or the like). In someembodiments, substrate 1720 is substantially free of active and passivedevices.

Substrate 1720 may have bond pads 1740 on a first side of substrate 1720to couple to stacked dies 1730, and bond pads 1755 on a second side ofsubstrate 1720, the second side being opposite the first side ofsubstrate 1720, to couple to conductive connectors 1760. Stacked dies1730 are coupled to substrate 1720 by wire bonds 1745, although otherconnections may be used, such as conductive bumps. In an embodiment,stacked dies 1730 may comprise, e.g., stacked memory dies. For example,stacked memory dies 1730 may include low-power (LP) double data rate(DDR) memory modules, such as LPDDR1, LPDDR2, LPDDR3, or like memorymodules, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, stacked dies 1730and wire bonds 1745 may be encapsulated by a molding material 1750.

After second packages 1710 are formed, second packages 1710 are bondedto first packages 800 by way of conductive connectors 1760, bond pads1755, and electrical connectors 200. In some embodiments, stacked memorydies 1730 may be coupled to IC dies 300 through wire bonds 1745, bondpads 1740 and 1755, through vias 1752, conductive connectors 1760, andelectrical connectors 200. Conductive connectors 1760 may be similar toconductive connectors 1000 described above, and the description is notrepeated herein, although conductive connectors 1760 and 1000 need notbe the same.

Semiconductor package 1700 includes packages 800 and 1710 being mountedto a substrate 1770. Substrate 1770 may be referred to as a packagesubstrate 1770. Second package 1710 is mounted to package substrate 1770through first package 800 using conductive connectors 1000. Packagesubstrate 1770 may include active and passive devices (not shown in FIG.17). As one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate, a variety ofdevices, such as transistors, capacitors, resistors, inductors, and/orthe like, may be used to meet structural and functional requirements ofthe design for PoP package 1700, and may be formed using any suitablemethods. In some embodiments, package substrate 1770 is substantiallyfree of active and passive devices.

As generally illustrated in FIG. 18 a, a representative method 1800 forforming a PoP structure 1700 begins with a first process 1805 to form afirst package. In step 1810, one or more electrical connectors areformed adjacent a die. In step 1812, the die and electrical connector(s)are encapsulated with an encapsulating material (e.g., moldingcompound). In step 1814, a first insulating layer is formed over the dieand electrical connector(s). In step 1816, an RDL is formed in the firstinsulating layer. In step 1818, a UBM layer is formed over the RDL. Instep 1820, a second insulating layer is formed over the UBM layer. Instep 1822, one or more conductive connectors are formed over at least aportion of the UBM layer. In a representative embodiment, first process1805 comprises steps 1810, 1812, 1814, 1816, 1818, 1820, and 1822.Processing may continue with step 1830, where the first package iscoupled to a second package. In step 1840, the first package of thecombined PoP structure is coupled to a substrate.

As generally illustrated in FIG. 18 b, a representative method 1850 forforming a UBM/RDL routing structure begins with a first process 1855 toform a first device structure. In step 1858, a die is provided. In step1860, one or more electrical connectors are optionally (as denoted bydashed lines in FIG. 18b ) formed adjacent the die. In step 1862, thedie and optional electrical connector(s) are optionally encapsulatedwith an encapsulating material (e.g., molding compound). In step 1864, afirst insulating layer is formed over the die. In step 1866, an RDL isformed in the first insulating layer. In step 1868, a UBM layer isformed over the RDL. In step 1870, a second insulating layer is formedover the UBM layer. In step 1872, one or more conductive connectors areformed over at least a portion of the UBM layer. In a representativeembodiment, first process 1855 comprises steps 1858, 1864, 1866, 1868,1870, and 1872. In another representative embodiment, first process 1855comprises steps 1858, 1864, 1866, 1868, 1870, 1872, and optionally oneor both of steps 1860 and 1862. Processing may continue with step 1880,where the first device structure may be optionally coupled to a seconddevice structure. In step 1890, a composite device comprising thecoupled second device structure and first device structure may beoptionally coupled to a substrate.

Embodiments of representative devices and methods may have severaladvantages. For example, ball fatigue (normalized to designs employingdirect UBM routing) is reduced by a factor of about 67% with utilizationof a routing design in accordance with representative embodiments. Thepredicted package lifespan (normalized to designs employing direct UBMrouting) is increased by a factor of about 82% with utilization of arouting design in accordance with representative embodiments.Additionally, the current capacity of an electrical routing design inaccordance with representative embodiments for simulated failure at anoperating temperature of 110° C. for 10 years (normalized to designsemploying direct UBM routing) is improved by a factor of about 300%.Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have beendescribed with regard to specific embodiments; however, benefits,advantages, solutions to problems, and any component(s) that may causeany benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronouncedare not to be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature orcomponent.

In accordance with a representative embodiment, a method includes thesteps of: forming a redistribution layer (RDL) over a first side of afirst die, the first die having a second side opposite the first side,the RDL comprising a first portion and a second portion, the firstportion separated from the second portion by insulating material of theRDL, the first portion and the second portion at a same level in theRDL; forming an under bump metallurgy (UBM) layer over the RDL, the UBMlayer comprising a UBM trace and a UBM pad, the UBM trace electricallycoupling the first portion to the second portion, the UBM padelectrically coupled to the second portion; and forming a firstconductive connector over and electrically coupled to the UBM pad. Afirst electrical connector is formed adjacent the first die. The RDL andthe UBM pad electrically connect the first die to the first conductiveconnector. The first die and the first electrical connector are at leastlaterally encapsulated with a molding compound to form a first package.A second package is coupled to the first package using a second set ofconductive connectors, the second package being proximate the secondside of the first die, the second package comprising a second die. Thefirst portion and the second portion may comprise a same material. Thefirst portion and the second portion may be formed in a same step. Aninsulating layer may be formed over the UBM layer.

In accordance with another representative embodiment, a method includesforming a first package by: at least laterally encapsulating a first dieand a first electrical connector with a molding compound, the firstelectrical connector adjacent the first die, the first die having afirst side and a second side, the second side opposite the first side;forming an insulating layer over the first side of the first die and themolding compound; forming a metallization pattern in the insulatinglayer; forming an under bump metallurgy (UBM) layer over themetallization pattern; forming an insulating layer over the UBM layer;and forming a first conductive connector over a first portion of the UBMlayer, the UBM layer comprising a second portion separated from thefirst portion by insulating material of the insulating layer, themetallization pattern comprising a third portion that electricallycouples the first portion and the second portion, the first portion, thesecond portion, and the third portion electrically coupled to the firstconductive connector, and insulating material of the UBM layerinterposed between the third portion and the insulating material,wherein the insulating material is in a different material layer thanthe insulating material. The metallization pattern and the UBM layerelectrically connects the first die to the first conductive connector.The UBM layer may be conformally deposited. The first portion and thesecond portion may comprise a same material. The first portion and thesecond portion may comprise a different material than the third portion.The first portion and the second portion may be formed in a same step.The first portion may comprise a UBM pad. A second package may becoupled to the first package using a second set of conductiveconnectors, the second package being proximate the second side of thefirst die. A substrate may be coupled to the first package using thefirst conductive connector, and the second package comprises a seconddie.

In accordance with another representative embodiment, a packagestructure has a first package including: a molding compound laterallyencapsulating a die and an electrical connector, the electricalconnector adjacent the die, the die having a first side and a secondside opposite the first side; a redistribution layer (RDL) over thefirst side of the die and the molding compound; an under bump metallurgy(UBM) layer over the RDL; an insulating layer over the UBM layer; and afirst conductive connector over a first portion of the UBM layer;wherein: the UBM layer comprises a second portion separated from thefirst portion by insulating material of the insulating layer; the RDLcomprises a third portion disposed under and electrically coupling thefirst portion and second portion; the first portion, second portion, andthird portion electrically connected to the first conductive connector;insulating material of the UBM layer is interposed between the thirdportion and the insulating material; and the insulating material is adifferent material layer than the insulating material. The RDL and theUBM layer electrically connects the die to the first conductiveconnector. A second package may be coupled to the first package using asecond set of conductive connectors, the second package being proximatethe second side of the die.

The foregoing outlines features of several embodiments so that thoseskilled in the art may better understand the aspects of the presentdisclosure. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that they mayreadily use the present disclosure as a basis for designing or modifyingother processes and structures for carrying out the same purposes and/orachieving the same advantages of the embodiments introduced herein.Those skilled in the art should also realize that such equivalentconstructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the presentdisclosure, and that they may make various changes, substitutions, andalterations herein without departing from the spirit and scope of thepresent disclosure.

1. A method comprising: forming a redistribution layer (RDL) over afirst side of a first die, the first die having a second side oppositethe first side, the RDL comprising a first portion and a second portion,the first portion separated from the second portion by insulatingmaterial of the RDL, the first portion and the second portion at a samelevel in the RDL; forming an under bump metallurgy (UBM) layer over theRDL, the UBM layer comprising a UBM trace and a UBM pad, the UBM traceelectrically coupling the first portion to the second portion, the UBMpad electrically coupled to the second portion, wherein the UBM trace isformed after the RDL; and forming a first conductive connector over andelectrically coupled to the UBM pad.
 2. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising forming a first electrical connector adjacent the first die.3. The method of claim 2, wherein the RDL and the UBM pad electricallyconnect the first die to the first conductive connector.
 4. The methodof claim ₃, further comprising at least laterally encapsulating thefirst die and the first electrical connector with a molding compound toform a first package.
 5. The method of claim ₄, further comprising,coupling a second package to the first package using a second set ofconductive connectors, the second package being proximate the secondside of the first die, the second package comprising a second die. 6.The method of claim 1, wherein the first portion and the second portioncomprise a same material.
 7. The method of claim 6, wherein the firstportion and the second portion are formed in a same step.
 8. The methodof claim 1, further comprising forming an insulating layer over the UBMtrace.
 9. A method comprising: forming a first package by: laterallyencapsulating a first die and a first electrical connector with amolding compound, the first electrical connector adjacent the first die,the first die having a first side and a second side, the second sideopposite the first side; forming a first insulating layer over the firstside of the first die and the molding compound; forming a metallizationpattern in the first insulating layer, wherein the metallization patterncomprises a first portion and a second portion separated from the firstportion by a first insulating region of the first insulating layer;after forming the metallization pattern, forming an under bumpmetallurgy (UBM) layer over the metallization pattern, wherein: thefirst portion and the second portion are at a same level of themetallization pattern; and the UBM layer comprises a third portion thatelectrically couples the first portion and the second portion; forming asecond insulating layer over the UBM layer; and forming a firstconductive connector over the UBM layer, wherein the first portion, thesecond portion, and the third portion are electrically coupled to thefirst conductive connector.
 10. The method of claim ₉, wherein themetallization pattern and the UBM layer electrically connects the firstdie to the first conductive connector.
 11. The method of claim ₉,wherein the UBM layer is conformally deposited.
 12. The method of claim₉, wherein the first portion and the second portion comprise a samematerial.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the first portion and thesecond portion comprise a different material than the third portion. 14.The method of claim ₉, wherein the first portion and the second portionare formed in a same step.
 15. The method of claim ₉ further comprising,coupling a second package to the first package using a second set ofconductive connectors, the second package being proximate the secondside of the first die.
 16. The method of claim 15 further comprising,coupling a substrate to the first package using the first conductiveconnector, and wherein the second package comprises a second die. 17-20.(canceled)
 21. A method of forming a package structure, the methodcomprising: forming a first package by: disposing an electricalconnector adjacent a die, the die having a first side and a second sideopposite the first side; laterally encapsulating the die and theelectrical connector with a molding compound; forming a redistributionlayer (RDL) over the first side of the die and the molding compound;disposing an under bump metallurgy (UBM) layer over the RDL; forming aninsulating layer over the UBM layer; and disposing a first conductiveconnector over a first portion of the UBM layer, wherein: the UBM layercomprises a second portion separated from the first portion by a firstinsulating material of the insulating layer; the RDL comprises a thirdportion disposed under the UBM layer and electrically coupling the firstportion and second portion of the UBM layer; the first portion, secondportion, and third portion are electrically connected to the firstconductive connector; uppermost surfaces of the first portion and thesecond portion are at a same level as an uppermost surface of the UBMlayer; a second insulating material is interposed between the thirdportion of the RDL and the first insulating material; and the firstinsulating material is in a different material layer than the secondinsulating material.
 22. The method of claim 21, further comprisingelectrically connecting the die to the first conductive connectorthrough the RDL and the UBM layer.
 23. The method of claim 21, furthercomprising coupling a second package to the first package using a secondset of conductive connectors, the second package being proximate thesecond side of the die.
 24. The method of claim 23, further comprisingcoupling a substrate to the first package using the first conductiveconnector, wherein the second package comprises a second die.